canine behavior

Dogs are group-living animals that expect, and are respectful of, a leader in their social set. So, it is important that you assume a leadership role by establishing clear rules
and expectations for behavior. By doing so, you help your dog learn his role and place within his new home. A few simple rules will help make training easier and help your
dog learn the rules of the house.

Be firm and gentle, but do not punish.

Be consistent: All family members should have the dog follow the same rules.

Have your dog earn attention and other rewards by being calm and quiet.

Follow through with each command and only give each command once.

Never hit or strike your dog for disobeying.

Always reward good behavior with plenty of praise, patting or with a small kibble of food.

Behavior training for your new puppy:

Teach your new pet to respond to his name and come when he is called. It is vital that you are able to command your dog’s attention and summon him immediately if he starts doing something he shouldn’t.

Use his name often and make “Come!” the first spoken command your dog learns, always followed by praise. In this way, he will learn to associate positive experiences with this command.

Always supervise your dog when he is outdoors.

While outside, your puppy should be contained in a fenced area or walked on a leash.

It’s not a good idea to tie your puppy or adult dog outside. No matter how carefully you watch him, there is always a possibility that he could break loose or be bothered and unable to escape.

PLAYINGDogs require daily exercise and regular play times. Play is important contact between you and your new pet. It helps develop his social skills, provides exercise, and strengthens the bond between the two of you. Play also provides a constructive release for your puppy’s pent-up energy. Interact with your dog by talking a walk in the park, going for a job or playing catch. Provide a variety in toys and games to keep things interesting.

HANDLING YOUR PUPPYThroughout his life, you will need to handle your dog to groom him, trim his nails, check for any problems, and perhaps give medication. These will all be easier if you get your new puppy used to being handled on a regular basis. When the puppy is calm, gently run your hands over his feet and body while talking softly to him. Look into his ears and perhaps even open his mouth. Reward him with praise, petting, and tiny food tidbits. If you have adopted an older dog, be sure that you spend quality time with him, petting him and getting him used to being handled.

Canine Problem BehaviorsCHEWINGA puppy’s chewing problem is usually due to teething, lack of appropriate outlets for exercise, or stress. Giving a puppy ice cubes can help alleviate sore gums, and plenty of safe chew toys will provide appropriate outlets for chewing. When you catch your puppy in the act of chewing something off limits, bring this inappropriate behavior to your puppy’s attention by saying “No!” or “Ahhh!” and redirecting his attention to chewing a safe toy. Praise him when he chews the toy by saying in a high-pitched, happy voice “Good boy!”

CRYING AND WHININGDogs love human companionship. Although being left alone is sometimes necessary, it can be stressful – especially for a young dog. A puppy may not be sure when you are going to return. Your puppy needs reassurance and lots of reinforcement. You may want to start teaching him to stay alone by letting him spend short periods of time in his crate while you are at home. Praise him when he is quiet. Try not to make a big production out of leaving or returning to avoid reinforcing any possible feelings of anxiety. Provide safe toys as a distraction from loneliness. You might also leave a radio playing softly in another room, so that he hears voices and feels secure.

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